Lamborghini drives research into use of composites for prosthetic devices

Automobili Lamborghini (Sant’Agata Bolognese, Italy) has announced that it is collaborating with Houston Methodist Research Institute and sharing its expertise in carbon-fiber-composite materials. Researchers are studying the materials for use in prosthetic implants.

The ongoing project is focused on a biocompatibility study of composite materials to be used mainly in prosthetic implants, but also in devices that are implanted under the skin. The aim is to identify new materials that are lighter, better tolerated by the human body and more resistant over time than conventional materials.

Mauro Ferrari, PhD, President and CEO of the Houston Methodist Research Institute, was welcomed in Sant’Agata Bolognese by Stefano Domenicali, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Automobili Lamborghini. Dr. Ferrari is an Italian scientist engaged mainly in nanotechnology research and in the field of applied bioengineering in medicine. (The press release does not mention if he is related to the famed automaker and Lamborghini rival.)

Lamborghini has a long history in the use of carbon-fiber-reinforced polymers in automobiles, and recently celebrated the 30th anniversary of the material’s use in its vehicles. In June of last year, it opened the Advanced Composite Structures Laboratory in Seattle, where it continues to research carbon-fiber innovations with partner companies such as Boeing.

In addition to the Houston Methodist Research Institute, Lamborghini collaborates with healthcare establishments in Italy to research the use of carbon fiber in medical applications.